Woman tied to tree and tortured

A woman was tied to a tree and beaten mercilessly by her neighbours yesterday for allegedly stealing bamboo in Habiganj's Baniachong on Sunday.

Mohammad Emran Hossain, officer-in-charge of Baniachong Police Station, confirmed the incident and said a case was filed against five people in this regard that same night.

Sarala Begum, 40, was dragged out of her house, tied to a jackfruit tree and tortured by neighbour Abdul Khaliq and his sons, said Waheed Mia, the woman's husband.

"Before they attacked her, they first beat me up so I couldn't stop them from torturing her."

Waheed added, "At one point, my wife lost consciousness but they still continued beating her."

Hafeez Shamrul Islam, chairman of the local union parishad, said, "[Upon information], I reached the spot and found Sarala in critical condition. With the help of others, I took and admitted her to Habiganj Sadar Hospital, where she is currently under treatment."

Waheed was also taken to the same hospital. He, however, was able to return home after primary treatment.

OC Emran said he and Inspector (investigation) Md Kabir Hossain went to the spot after being informed by locals. A drive is underway to arrest the accused.

Abdul Khaliq could not be contacted for comments as his mobile phone was found switched off.